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Exeter City midfielder Ed Francis said the support he has received since signing for the League One club has been "unbelievable".

The 24-year-old joined from National League side Gateshead in July for an undisclosed fee and has made three league appearances so far this season.

Speaking ahead of City's game away to Bolton Wanderers on Saturday, he said he has noticed a "step up in intensity and quality" and that his "body needs time to react and adapt" to the level.

However, Francis added the "energy you get from the crowd" has helped him.

'Big Bank's bouncing'

Francis became the club's fifth signing of the summer after agreeing a two-year deal at St James Park.

"I've really enjoyed it on the sunny Devon coast and I think I've settled in nicely," he said.

"Up in the north it was always cold, especially in the winter, so it's been really nice."

He added: "It's a change for me stepping up from the conference, and it's a step up in intensity and quality.

"It's taking me a bit of time to adapt but hopefully day by day I'm taking the right steps in the right direction."

Francis also praised the reception from the fans since joining the club.

"The support's been unbelievable, and the Big Bank's been bouncing," he said.

"The energy you get from the crowd really helps the players, and if we can make St James Park a fortress, and make it really hard for teams, we as players will gain confidence from that."